Chandler Parsons calls James Harden’s comments ‘ridiculous’

First, it was Harden talking to media in the Phillipines when he said of the Rockets without Parsons and others:

“Dwight and I are the cornerstones of the Rockets. The rest of the guys are role players or pieces that complete our team. We’ve lost some pieces and added some pieces. I think we’ll be fine next season.”

By the time that message filtered across to the states, Parsons took issue with it in a radio interview with Jay Mohr.

“That’s a pretty ridiculous statement if he meant that. That’s one of the reasons why I wanted to go to Dallas. I’m ready for the next step. I’m ready for a bigger role and I’m ready for more leadership. If anyone should understand that, it should be James because he was in the same situation in Oklahoma City then he got his chance to come to Houston and shine.”

Speaking at an appearance in The Philippines, Harden said the Rockets could replace “pieces” that have left, including Parsons, Jeremy Lin and Omer Asik.

Harden is among of a group of players, including Rockets’ second-round pick Nick Johnson, in Manila for an appearance. A planned exhibition game was canceled, however, when it was determined to not have been properly sanctioned by the NBA.

His comment was similar to Howard’s last week that Parsons’ departure “won’t affect us at all,” but went a step further by characterizing teammates as mere pieces. Parsons said he was not bothered by Howard’s comment, understanding that Howard needed to express confidence. He did, however, seem to take offense at being called “a piece” or “role player.”

Lin, however, said he had no problem with Harden’s comment, even saying that he agreed.

“I agree with his statement,” Lin said during his introductory press conference with the Lakers. “Those two are the cornerstones. They have lost other players and they’re going to get other players and they’re going to be a good team. I know who James is as a person. I’ve spoken to him since I’ve been traded. He didn’t mean anything in a derogatory or condescending way. I don’t think it’s a secret that him and Dwight are the cornerstones of the Houston Rockets.”